Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure to remove excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with the body. Most women are good candidates for this procedure, as long as they are healthy and have reasonable expectations. The benefits of mammoplasty reduction surgery include a more youthful appearance, relief from neck and back pain, and improved self-esteem.
The surgeon may use the appropriate reduction mammoplasty surgery technique and it depends upon the size and shape of the breasts, how the patient wishes to look after the surgery and how much breast tissue needs to be reduced.
Liposuction: In this method, a thin tube called a cannula is inserted through small incisions near the breasts. The surgeon breaks up the fatty tissue with the cannula and sucks it out. It is recommendedfor small reductions and also for individuals where their skin will get back into position.
Anchor or Inverted T incision: In this method, an anchor-shaped incision is made. It starts at the areola (the dark area around the nipple), goes down and around the bottom of the breast, and then comes back up along the underside. This shape resembles an anchor, hence its name. It is the most common incision pattern used for breast reductions. It is recommended for individuals with a lot of unevenness or sagging or large reductions.
Wise-pattern or Lollipop Incision: In this method, a circle is made around the areola, and then a line is made down to the crease beneath the breast. Wise-pattern incisions are used when moderate amounts of tissue need to be removed. It is for individuals with visible sagging and who are looking for moderate breast reductions.
The surgeon may insert drainage tubes, then stitch and wrap your breasts in a special bandage. A special bra would be recommended after the procedure.